Posted Wed Dec 27, 2017 at 10:20 AM PST by Steven Cohen
Universal movies will be available to rent the same day that they hit stores.
Redbox has signed an expanded distribution deal with Universal for same-day DVD and Blu-ray rentals through the company's kiosks. This means that new Universal titles will now be available to rent through Redbox the same day that they are released in retail stores for purchase. In addition, the agreement also adds Universal titles to the new Redbox On Demand digital platform.
"We are very pleased that our more than seven-year partnership with Universal has evolved into the best case for Redbox consumers, who will now be able to enjoy day-and-date access to Universal's new releases across Redbox's disc and digital services," said Galen Smith, CEO of Redbox.
Prior to the new deal, there was a 28-day window before Redbox could start renting Universal titles once they were released on home video. The same-day rental agreement will start with the release of Universal's January Blu-ray and DVD titles, including American Made and Brad's Status on January 2. Outside of Universal, Redbox also has same-day rental deals with Sony and Lionsgate. Meanwhile, the company has a 7-day window for Warner Bros. and 20th Century Fox titles, leaving Disney as one of the only major studios it does not have a direct deal with. On that note, Disney is actually in the process of suing Redbox for selling the digital copy codes that come with Disney releases.
Redbox currently has more than 41,500 rental kiosks nationwide and is continuing to add more. Redbox DVD rentals start at $1.50 per night and Blu-ray rentals start at $2 per night. And beyond the company's physical media rental options, Redbox also now offers a new On Demand platform for digital rentals and purchases.
Source: Redbox via PR Newswire, Variety
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